Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today urged the countrymen to transform tree planting and environmental conservation into a daily civic practice, saying the government is working to build a green, climate-resilient and sustainable Bangladesh.
Making Tree Planting a Daily Habit
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the World Environment Day programme, Environment Fair 2026 and the National Tree Plantation Campaign and Tree Fair 2026 at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of integrating tree plantation and environmental conservation into everyday life.
He said, "Tree plantation and environmental conservation should become a part of our everyday lives. If we can make these practices habitual, we will build a healthier and greener society."
Government Initiatives for Environmental Protection
The Prime Minister highlighted several government initiatives aimed at protecting the environment. These include introducing Green Volunteerism in educational institutions, launching the Climate Youth Fellowship, and establishing an Environment Start-up Fund.
He also mentioned the government's plan to plant 25 crore tree saplings over the next five years, stressing the need for scientific assessment to determine suitable species for specific soils, climates, and ecosystems.
Focus on Indigenous Species and Ecosystem Balance
Prime Minister Rahman emphasized the importance of prioritizing indigenous species, including medicinal plants, orchids, bamboo, forest trees, fruit-bearing trees, commercially valuable species, and endangered native plants.
He noted that afforestation alone is not the final goal; forests must also provide safe habitats and adequate food for birds, wildlife, insects, and other living creatures. The government's objective is to maintain an ecological balance where plants, animals, soil, water, and air coexist in harmony.
Ensuring Tree Survival and Protecting Mature Trees
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of ensuring that newly planted trees survive and thrive. He also highlighted the need to protect mature trees that have long been part of the ecosystems rather than cutting them down.
He said, "Planting new trees is essential, but ensuring that those trees survive and thrive is even more important. Equally important is protecting mature trees that have long been part of our ecosystems rather than cutting them down."
